Coca-Cola to close UK sites with 300 jobs lost

Coca-Cola is planning to close two of its UK sites which could result in the loss of almost 300 jobs.

The proposal would affect a distribution centre in Northampton and a manufacturing site in Milton Keynes.

A company statement said: “We know today’s news will be upsetting for our people at these sites, and our immediate priority is to support them throughout the consultation process.
“We are proud of our long-standing links with both towns and have not made these proposals lightly.”
A total of 288 roles are at risk if the proposed changes are implemented, and the sites would close in 2019.

The drinks company says the changes are necessary because they would provide “significant productivity improvements” and create “greater efficiency” in their UK operations.

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The statement added: “At the same time we are proposing to transfer production and warehousing to other GB sites.
“We expect to create 121 additional roles across our manufacturing and distribution networks, providing potential redeployment opportunities for impacted colleagues.”